This is my first post on here, and I'm hoping you good folk may be able to help out a relative noob with some solid advice, backed up with experience! :)

I have been using a moka pot and a French press for some time now and have decided to take the plunge into the world of espresso machines. I have been grinding my own beans for some time, and like to think that I have picked up a little knowledge along the way.

My predicament lies herein. My research and consultation of a trusted roaster has lead me to desire Miss Silvia as my first machine, which I hope to purchase fairly soon. I'll also be after a new grinder as my current is a cheap faux burr grinder that has been satisfactory for use so far, but won't cut it with a half decent machine. All seems straight forward so far. The next step, and the problem, where the hell do I find her? There seems to be no trusted UK sources for a new machine, and the Euro importers seem to get a hefty slating. So, do I continue the search for Silvia, or do a change machine choice, and of so, to what? My budget is around £550 maybe for a machine and hopefully grinder, although I do have some flexibility of required. Basically I don't want to spend under budget and get a terrible machine 'that will do'.

Sorry about the length of that, but here's hoping that someone can be of assistance! Thank you all in advance :)

Miss Silvia is no longer the bell of the ball as she once was. Also, unless you are handy I would look to buy a machine that someone near me could service. I have serviced my own with no real skills but I was not afraid to try and so I bought used to stay on budget and get a more temp stable machine than Silvia. I did have to work on it, Oscar was neglected but now he is a star on my counter. Answer the standard questions above and read"How to Buy an Espresso Machine"

Ok. Food for thought to start with then. I'd be making a mix of milk as espresso drinks, maybe one or two per session, between twice and four times a day depending on my work schedule, every day of the week. I guess I expect a decent shot of espresso? I expect it to be hard worl to start with and appreciate there will likely be a steep learning curve and a fair amount of awful drinks! There are no good coffe bars near me, that I'm aware of anyway, so it's down to me to provide myself with a proper shot!

Ok, so the guide is very helpful, but I still don't know where to look? Any specific vendors that I should try or avoid? Any machine suggestions based on what I need? I'm very much in the dark here, with my first decision having been made on prior suggestions of Miss Silvia and the Gaggia Baby Twin. My head is very crazy place right now!

If Gaggia, then probably the Classic. Read reviews on the Twin, leaks are too common. The Classic has adjustable pressure/OPV and a 3-way. SBDU machines are not so much fun if you are making multiple drinks per session, especially if steam is needed, and you need to consider how often that happens.

It is difficult to recommend in your area without knowing availability of vendors and service. Look for vendors and service/parts in your area and if none, then expand. I would want a machine that I could get help and parts with in your area.

Consider used, but again think ahead of refurbishing and the needs for parts and support.

With the kind of consumption you described you'll probably do fine with a SBDU machine which also fits you budget. Besides the Rancilio Silvia you might want to take a look at the Gaggia Classic, Isomac Venus or QuickMill Cassiopeia.

***"This drink of the Satan is so delicious that it would be a shame to leave it to the infidels." (Pope Clement VIII on coffee, when he was urged to ban the beverage)

Thanks again guys, I think back to the gaggia classic it is, then just a better grinder to match! The gaggia grinders don't seem up to much tho, maybe an Ascaso or Rocky? Is it worthwhile getting one with a doser?

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